In a recent meeting with young sales and marketing professionals, Paragon Worldwide looked at the work of controversial Psychologist John Watson in order to highlight how almost everything needed for success can be learnt.

Finding success as an entrepreneur has become something of a phenomenon. Whilst many people are able to list the attributes they believe contributes to success, very few are able to take action and fully commit to entrepreneurship. To truly thrive in a business setting, people need to not only possess positive habits such as a strong work ethic, the ability to plan their time effectively, focus and self-discipline – they also need to present a core set of behaviours, which are ingrained deeply in their mind-set and influence their every action. These behaviours, such as being able to take risks and view things from new and intriguing perspectives are often thought to be the product of nature, rather than nurture, meaning that people who don’t exhibit these tendencies wrongly believe that they will not succeed as an entrepreneur.

About Paragon Worldwide: http://www.paragonworldwide.ie/about/

Paragon Worldwide, a leading provider of outsourced sales and marketing solutions greatly disagree with this common belief, and have been working hard to disprove this myth amongst their independent contractors. The firm recently turned to the work of controversial psychologist John Watson to showcase how even the most innate and natural behaviours can be learnt with the right conditioning, focus and desire.

To highlight that behaviours of all types can be the result of learning and environment, Paragon Worldwide looked at Watson’s most famous and most controversial study of ‘Little Albert’. The 1920’s study was conducted to investigate how behaviours can be learnt through conditioning and saw Watson expose a 9-month-old boy to a white rat. Every time the rat was presented to the boy Watson would clang an iron rod to scare the child. Over time the boy learnt to be scared of the rat, even without the accompanying loud noise – therefore proving that even the most natural behaviours can be learnt through environmental factors and repetition.

Whilst the study still remains a hot topic in psychology circles due to its questionable ethics, Paragon Worldwide believes that Watson’s work highlights some important lessons for those who feel they don’t have what it takes to succeed in business. Just like Little Albert and the rat, professionals need to spend time repeating certain behaviours and exposing themselves to certain environments if they are to develop the behaviours of success. This means that, if a person wants to become more comfortable with taking risks, they need to make a daily effort to leave their comfort zone and experience something new every day. Over time, this will condition their mind to be more accepting of risk and to seek out new opportunities within their environment.

Following this study, Paragon Worldwide conducted further research into conditioning behaviour and discovered the “Pavlov’s Dogs” theory, which was developed by Russian physiologist Ivan Pavlov in the 1890s. During his experiment, Pavlov tested a type of learned behaviour using operant conditioning that re-affirmed positive habits and behaviours, such as a dog associating a bell with food, and then over time the bell being used to create salivation without the food. Paragon Acquisitions further promotes this as another great example of how great habits can be formed over time through repetition and effort.

Based in Cork, Paragon Worldwide are specialists in outsourced sales and marketing solutions, and help brands throughout Ireland form stronger connections with their target audience through dedicated, one-on-one communication.

No media attached. Please contact Paragon Acquisitions for more information.

To inspire their contractors to persevere and create a winner’s mentality, sales and marketing firm Paragon Worldwide recently shared the incredible story of how NBA player Stephen Curry beat the odds and returned from injury with an unwavering determination to succeed.

About Paragon Worldwide: http://www.paragonworldwide.ie/about/

For those who don’t follow the NBA the name Stephen Curry probably won’t mean much. However, for avid basketball fans across the globe, Stephen Curry is synonymous with determination, focus and a passion for success. Curry, for many, is much more than an American professional basketball player, having been named by sport analysts as the greatest shooter in NBA history, and winning the converted NBA Most Valuable Player Award multiple times. However the world held its breath in 2011 when Curry was taken out of the NBA in order to receive treatment for a severe injury on his right ankle.

For a year Curry was in and out of hospital both for his existing ankle injury and an issue with a tendon in his foot. As his absences clocked up, an increasing number of sports writers, pundits and even fans began to lose faith in Curry and some even considered him to be a risk rather than an asset to his team. However Curry refused to let his career choices and potential be impacted by doubters and rather than ending his Basketball career, Curry chose to overcome his setbacks and come back bigger and better than ever. Coming back from injury, Stephen Curry returned to the NBA and overtime broke an NBA scoring record of 17 points in just 3 minutes.

Paragon Worldwide states that even non-sports fans can learn a lot from Curry’s grit and determination, which is why they recently decided to share his inspiring story with their young sales and marketing contractors. In order to overcome not only his health challenges, but the increasing negative media that surrounded his performance, Curry chose to focus his time and energy on conditioning his mind set and think like a winner whilst recovering from his injuries.

Over the years there have been a number of studies conducted that focus on the surprising power of the mind. The studies showed that by taking two groups and asking one to train physically and the other mentality, the mentality trained group almost always generates a better score ratio. By practicing actions and scenarios in their mind, people are able to learn a skill better because they maintain a greater focus on strategy and creativity which allows them to react quicker and come up with effective solutions when performing the action physically later on.

Paragon Worldwide believes that in business as in sport - perfect practice makes perfect and as such are keen to encourage more young professionals to think like a winner and practice new skills in their minds as well as in person.

Based in Cork, Paragon Worldwide are specialists in direct marketing solutions and work with a number of local and international clients to help raise brand awareness, customer loyalty and generate a higher quantity of sales through face-to-face, tailored customer interactions.

Paragon Acquisitions believes that much emphasis is placed on the importance of addressing certain points when networking and forging new relationships. However, it is in fact mastering the art of small talk that needs to be addressed. Being able to talk about small everyday things is how the tone is set, and allows natural relaxed conversation to take place. Paragon Acquisitions believes this is the best way for entrepreneurs to start building a successful network, which can be truly based on personal opinion whilst offering themselves with a great first impression when forging new relationships.

Paragon Acquisitions offer their tips on how to get started when mastering small talk:

1. Be proactive. Don't wait as approaching people first creates an aura of confidence and will put the other person at ease. Many people are naturally introverts and struggle to make conversation. Don't miss out on opportunities from casual conversation, as you never know where a conversation may lead.

2. Smile and make eye contact. Smiling relaxes the other person and sets the tone as relaxed and friendly. Making eye contact displays interest and engagement in the conversation.

3. Practice makes perfect. Talk to everyone; from the people on the train to the store staff. It's likely you won't see these people again and it will relax the conversation allowing you to practice.

4. Learn some opening lines. Try starting with a statement as opposed to a question. It's less formal, less intrusive and will relax the conversation and the other person. A few examples of how to do this include:

"I wanted to introduce myself and say thanks because I always enjoy what you blog about. Where do you get all your ideas?"

5. Ask open ended questions. A great way to get a conversation flowing is to ask open ended questions that require a detailed response and will get the other person to engage. Knowing the difference between open and closed questions is important. So instead of: "How long have you lived here?" Ask "What made you decide to move here and how do you like it?" This is a great opener as people like to talk about themselves, and this is a relaxed topic.

6. Be a good listener. Display that you're listening by offering good responses. It will create an instant connection. Try paraphrasing the conversation to display listening and ensuring that clear understanding has been established as it offers the speaker a chance to correct if misunderstood.

For example:

New acquaintance: I wish we'd get a change in the weather.

You: Sounds like you're not a fan of snow.

The result: remaining neutral in the conversation, but offering a reflective response.

7. Keep it upbeat. Remain positive, no one likes to spend time with a nit-picker. Choose about non-controversial topics to avoid any first impression blunders. Hot button topics are the usual suspects: politics, the economy, religion, race and ethnicity and the environment. When people raise these topics, form a stock reply such as, "Well, that's a matter for another discussion." If that doesn't work, just gracefully let the person give their opinions.

Paragon Acquisitions is a sales and marketing firm who focus on providing businesses of all sizes with engaging event marketing campaigns. The firm believe that by meeting with customers face-to-face, businesses can greatly improve their customer relationships and loyalty, which in turn will generate a high ROI and increase brand exposure.

Paragon Acquisitions investigates the importance of having a role model in order to establish personal goals.

It has long been recognized by the business industry, that an individual's decisions and choices are often influenced by the behaviour of others, the identity others portray and the examples demonstrated by those important to them. Paragon Acquisitions has investigated the presence of Entrepreneurial role models and the specific functions they perform in effecting an individual's behaviour.

About Paragon Acquisitions: http://www.paragonacquisitions.co.uk/

In a study recently conducted by the Erasmus School of Economics, interviewing 292 classified Entrepreneurs, they concluded that there was an overwhelming significance in the part role models played in an individual's critical decision to pursue an entrepreneurial career. Of these Entrepreneurs, 81% had a role model before starting up their venture and 63% had a role model within the first three years of the business.

From Paragon Acquisition's recent research into Entrepreneurship, the company concluded that this choice of career is rapidly on the rise. Therefore, the need for valuable role models has never been more important in the industry. Everyone has a person who they are inspired by, whether it is a personal relative, famous icon or family friend. Through studies, such as the one conduct by the Erasmus School, the actions of these role models and their effects on our own behaviour is becoming ever clearer.

Paragon Acquisitions argues that role models have four main purposes, which in turn affect our behavior in making future decisions. Firstly, for inspiration and motivation; forming a desperate need in an individual to better themselves either professionally or personally. Secondly, to increase self-efficacy; by creating confidence within an individual such as 'if he/she can do it, why can't I?' Thirdly, by being an example, leading from the front they set guidelines and expectations for certain behavior. Lastly, by creating support and giving advice, either by updating a blog or during an interview on TV for a magazine, or even at home or around the house.

From the studies Paragon Acquisitions have seen, it is evident the positive effect having a role model who inspires you can have. Therefore, it is clear that it is a very common thing to attempt to follow in the footsteps of someone you aspire to be like. The CEO of Paragon Acquisitions provides his opinion on the importance of having an inspirational role model "It is crucial to have a role model, someone to aspire to and replicate successes of, it helps create vision and focus."

No media attached. Please contact Paragon Acquisitions for more information.

Networking is an essential element in business, and entrepreneurs must master the skill of networking in order to develop relationships that could play a pivotal role in future success, claims Paragon Acquisitions in Manchester.

Working in a very people-focused business, Paragon Acquisitions in Manchester believes that networking is a vital element for their representatives to learn, it teaches them how to talk to different types of people, build relationships and acquire a wealth of knowledge that will help to achieve future success.The firm regularly attend networking events and urges their representatives to build up a network of people within and outside the industry that they can go to for advice and guidance. 'On my way to becoming a business owner i made a huge effort and went out of my way to build a vast network of people I could turn to whenever I needed advice and guidance and it was a massive help.Now I have people reaching out to me to network with and I'm happy to share what I have learned and help others,' said Managing Director at Paragon Acquisitions Carlton Roach.

Manchester-based direct marketing specialists, Paragon Acquisitions have shared their advice on how to network like a pro.

What is your goal?

Before attending networking events, consider what the goal is. All entrepreneurs should analyse the reason for attending a networking event; is it to pitch a new business idea to potential donors, to look for a potential business partner or to build relationships? Have a definite objective says Paragon Acquisitions.'Have a clear vision of what you want to achieve and you will be more likely to accomplish your goals,' said Carlton Roach at Paragon Acquisitions.

Focus on one thing

Pick one important thing for people to take away from the meeting.To network effectively it is important for individuals to decide what it is they are trying to communicate.If people are only going to remember one thing from speaking to them they must decide what they want that one thing to be

What is your USP?

Before attending an event, attendees must identify their unique selling point so they can effectively communicate that to others.What makes their idea or product unique? They must ensure they communicate their USP after expressing the one thing they want people to take away.

Ask open ended questions

An open ended question will encourage a discussion that will hopefully receive a full and meaningful answer based on the subject's knowledge and/or feelings.

Networking should be used to build a network of people with specific skills and knowledge, at different career levels.Asking a great open ended question will help to qualify whether the person will be a good addition to their network.

Paragon Acquisitions is a Manchester based sales and marketing firm that offer businesses of all sizes a wide range of creative direct marketing solutions. On behalf of their clients the firm develop and implement engaging campaigns that are designed to create a buzz and promote brand loyalty. Paragon Acquisitions meet with customers in person through presentations and events and work hard to forge positive relationships and meet consumers' changing needs. This personalised approach has allowed the firm to generate impressive revenue for their clients and dramatically increase their customer acquisition rates.

No media attached. Please contact Paragon Acquisitions for more information.

With so much competition threatening to steal customers away with innovative new products and solutions, reading customer behaviour and understanding their changing needs is vital. But can the behaviour of customers ever really be predicted successfully? Paragon Acquisitions Investigates.

Paragon Acquisitions are looking to explore the importance of understanding and tracking customer's behaviours to assist in product development and new product innovation. There are varying degrees of analytics, and as a result Paragon Acquisitions base their knowledge on the following:

Feedback: What they tell us Experience: What they've done in the past Intuition: How we assume people behave

Predicting behaviours can be difficult and frustrating for businesses and there are issues with making assumptions from data collected.

Feedback, depending on how it is recorded, can be information that leads us to make assumptions that are not 100% accurate. How was the feedback obtained, and at what point of the customers experience? How confident is the customer sharing their feedback?

Experience assumes that what people have done in the past they will continue to do. With the fast advancements in products/services available it is important to take into consideration when determining conclusions from data recorded.

Intuition is the factor to be wary of the most. Humans tend to feel that they are in tune with fellow humans and that they can foresee behaviours. This is probably the least reliable way to predict consumer behaviour and should be approached with caution.

Paragon Acquisitions feel that using face to face interactions with customers allows the business to gather feedback, where they can take external influences into consideration when reporting the data received. Body language, expression and tone of voice are a few ways of determining if the feedback received is accurate. Also actual real-time customer suggestions can be noted, at the time that they wished a solution was available.

Paragon Acquisitions is a Southampton based event marketing firm that helps brands increase their presence in the marketplace. The firm work closely with each client to create a campaign that perfectly reflects their individual goals and brand message. The firm then go and meet consumers in a retail environment, through face to face communication the firm build a rapport with consumers and develop lasting relationships which help their clients to increase sales and customer loyalty. Paragon Acquisitions strategies and techniques have not only helped a number of businesses expand their market reach, but have also helped them to generate enough revenue to grow their businesses and guarantee a sense of longevity even in the most unpredictable markets.

Despite consumer spending currently experiencing a steady rise, high street foot fall is still way lower than retailers estimated. Event marketing firm Paragon Acquisitions would like to see more consumers hit the high streets and believe event marketing could be the answer.

About Paragon: http://www.paragonacquisitions.co.uk/

A recent study has called for the high street to look for new ways to increase customer foot fall, after a disappointing study revealed retailers are failing to attract shoppers away from online stores and back to the high streets. The study conducted by IMRG, and published by SmallBusiness on 20th January 2015 revealed that online shopping grew by 14% in 2014, with £1 in every £4 now being spent through online retailers, and the remaining £3 likely to be involved in some kind of digital transaction. This lack of physical shopping transactions is only further supported by recent research by retail research analysts Springboard, which revealed that the three month average in consumer footfall is currently at a 1.3% decline. Paragon Acquisitions are concerned by these recent findings however, with calls for local authorities to find new ways to bring trade back to the UKs high streets, the firm believe event marketing could in fact be a highly lucrative and effective answer to many retailers high street woes.

Whilst online shopping has excelled in recent months and despite many consumers enjoying the convenience of online retailers and 'click and collect' services, Paragon Acquisitions believe it's important to support and encourage the 'physical' shopping experience. High street retailers provide far better customer interaction, meaning that stronger relationships can be formed which leads to greater brand loyalty. By communicating with customers directly in this way retailers are able to gain a far clearer picture of their customers' needs which allows them to recommend far more appropriate products when compared to the capabilities of online retailers.

Paragon Acquisitions believe that the power of event marketing could be the ideal solution to draw shoppers back to the UKs dwindling high streets. Event marketing can create a buzz around a brand, and by offering limited offers and promotions can play an active role in enticing shoppers towards retail venues. Although many consumers believe online shopping can provide them with a better or cheaper deal, the service associated with online shopping pales in comparison to real brand interaction. Event marketing works by taking the time to get to know each customer individually, allowing brands to tailor their services and deals resulting in greater customer satisfaction and more positive customer relationships.

Paragon Acquisitions is Southampton based event marketing firm that helps brands increase their presence in the marketplace. The firm work closely with each client to create a campaign that perfectly reflects their individual goals and brand message. The firm then go and meet consumers in a retail environment, through face to face communication the firm build a rapport with consumers and develop lasting relationships which help their clients to increase sales and customer loyalty. Paragon Acquisitions strategies and techniques have not only helped a number of businesses expand their market reach, but have also helped them to generate enough revenue to grow their businesses and guarantee a sense of longevity even in the most unpredictable markets.

New research claims that 55% of small and medium enterprises (SME's) are failing within the first five years. Sales and marketing firm Paragon Acquisitions respond to the findings, and suggest why it's not all doom and gloom for new business owners.

Research conducted by insurer RSA has revealed that 55% of Britain's small businesses are failing within their first five years. The 'Growing Pains' study, which aimed to evaluate the state of UK businesses within the current economic climate found that since 2004 SME's have been on a downward trend despite the recovering economy. The construction and health sectors were found to be struggling the most, with survival rates of just 44% and 56% respectively. Whilst small business owners across all industries reported they were finding it difficult to achieve growth, with 63% citing growth as incredibly challenging.

Sales and marketing firm Paragon Acquisitions understand that there are many challenges faced by small businesses that could affect their ability to achieve long term success. The study found that the banks' reluctance to lend, UK tax and government red tape are the most common factors holding small businesses back. Paragon Acquisitions are concerned that many new business owners are being blinded by the positive state of the current economy, and are failing to conduct adequate research in these areas before embarking on their business ventures. The firm believe that now is a great time to start a business but are warning entrepreneurs that they must conduct thorough research and develop a long term business plan before taking the next big step.

Despite the results of the RSA study, Paragon Acquisitions believe that with the right support, UK SME's have the potential to thrive. There are many great organisations currently available to entrepreneurs that can provide practical business advice and support. Paragon Acquisitions believe that many new entrepreneurs are still unaware of these organisations and therefore think it's vital for entrepreneurs to attend as many networking events and seminars as possible to ensure they are aware of what's available to them. Events and organisations such as Virgin Startups and Small Business Week can provide a valuable opportunity for promising entrepreneurs to meet with potential mentors, investors and industry experts who can help them start out on the right track. These events can also connect them with likeminded individuals, creating a strong support network in which to discuss ideas and provide new perspectives on proposed business plans.

Paragon Acquisitions is a Southampton based sales and marketing firm. The firm help both large and small enterprises to boost their customer acquisition and retention rates, helping to drive profits and allowing their clients the opportunity to grow and expand. Through face to face interactions Paragon Acquisitions gain a deeper understanding of customer needs and work with each client to ensure these needs are met through the delivery of highly personalised customer service.

As supporters of the UK's growing community of SME's, Paragon Acquisitions have developed their own business development program, designed to fully prepare young entrepreneurs for the business world. The program covers all areas of business and helps entrepreneurs to develop their leadership skills and industry knowledge in a real work setting, providing them with the knowledge and expertise required to start a business of their own in the future.

There's more to creating a positive company culture than setting up a pool table in the office, or offering workers free food. Sales and marketing firm Paragon Acquisitions review the importance of building and strong company culture and offer their advice.

A positive company culture is vital to business success claims Paragon Acquisitions. The firm, which holds a strong focus on supporting and developing their young workforce, believe that creating a positive company culture can not only benefit a brand, it can also improve customer relationships. A positive company culture ensures that the morale of a workforce remains high, which will then filter through to all aspects of the business, meaning that any customers who come into contact with the business are guaranteed to have a pleasant customer experience.

At the centre of all businesses is a set of core values and beliefs that helped to shape their individual brand identities. It's these central values which, not only attract customers who share the same outlook, but also attracts workers to a business. By attracting workers who share the same vision Paragon Acquisitions believe that businesses can build a positive culture with everyone involved working towards the same overall goal. For smaller businesses and start-ups, it can be easier to keep hold of the initial values that helped shape the company's culture, due to a smaller workforce and a tighter 'community' spirit. However, as a business grows and more people become involved, bringing with them new ideas and outlooks, some businesses' may find that their company culture suffers.

With company culture being so important to the firm, Paragon Acquisitions have shared their top tips on how to create a positive culture and working atmosphere.

Streamline

Repetitive tasks are one of the biggest killers of staff morale. Paragon Acquisitions believe businesses should be constantly on the lookout for ways to streamline monotonous tasks, or ways to break boring work cycles.

Flexible Working Hours

As communication technology has developed, the need to work a set 9 to 5 has almost completely been abolished. Businesses should be aware of when their workers are most productive and aim to work with them to develop a schedule that works for both the business and the workforce.

Social Opportunities

By organising opportunities for workers to interact outside of the workplace, businesses could significantly improve their company culture by encouraging camaraderie. By encouraging workers to socialise outside of the workplace, businesses can reduce negative behaviours at work and increase job satisfaction and commitment.

Healthy Workspace

A workforce spends most of their week in the same space with the same people. Therefore it's important for a workplace to be healthy, welcoming and respected. By encouraging workers to look after their workspace, whilst at the same time allowing them the freedom to personalise it and create a home away from home, businesses can boost staff morale.

Paragon Acquisitions is a Southampton based sales and marketing firm. The firm use face to face direct marketing techniques to help their clients connect with their customers in order to increase their customer loyalty and acquisition rates. Paragon Acquisitions believe its vital for businesses to create a company culture that reflects their core values. This is why as a 'people centric' company, the firm run their own business development program to help their representatives develop their business and leadership skills.

On Saturday 11th October, Paragon Acquisitions attended a leadership seminar at the Hilton Hotel, Tower Bridge. The firm were inspired by the event since it provided valuable insights to help both business and personal development.

On Saturday 11th October, Southampton based outsourced sales and marketing firm Paragon Acquisitions travelled to London to attend a leadership seminar at the Hilton Hotel, Tower Bridge. At the seminar, run by other top business professionals within the industry, topics covered included new market trends and leadership techniques. Paragon Acquisitions was fortunate to observe four guest speakers from around the UK share their knowledge and valuable business insights.

Set against the backdrop of one of London's most renowned historical landmarks, Hilton London Tower Bridge is ideally located on the doorstep of the city's financial and shopping districts. This contemporary hotel is a fantastic sightseeing location from which to explore London's many tourist attractions. The hotels' professional atmosphere, helpful technology and planning tools can ensure any business meeting is a success.

The event was attended by 40 professionals from across the UK and Paragon Acquisitions believe the event provided valuable business insights which will help the firm with both personal and business development. One of the most helpful topics was on how to become a successful leader.

At Paragon Acquisitions, the firm believe that successful leaders will have the capacity to understand and work with other people, the capacity to create a secure environment where people have the physical and moral encouragements to work purposefully and the capacity to make business growth happen. The firm highlight qualities such as assertiveness, adaptability, intelligence and conscientiousness as the most important qualities of a strong leader. Paragon Acquisitions also firmly believe that leaders who are positive, inspiring and empowering, will be more valued by followers and have higher performing teams.

Paragon Acquisitions are expert strategists in helping clients with their most complex sales and marketing targets. The firm build tailored sales and marketing solutions to help UK business clients achieve sustained growth. Paragon Acquisition's solutions are innovative, whilst at the same time being based on industry knowledge and key marketing approaches.

The firm begin by helping client's choose where to focus marketing and sales campaigns in order to get the most effective boost to the business. Paragon Acquisitions are successful in finding the quickest route to success. This is due to a measureable, guaranteed and positive return for the investment made by clients together with continued, positive brand awareness.